Northern China has been plunged into turmoil as a relentless onslaught of harsh weather, including torrential downpours, flooding, and landslides, has resulted in a devastating loss of life. Reports from the Xi’an emergency management bureau reveal that the toll currently stands at 21 casualties, with an additional six individuals still missing. The region’s struggle with severe weather has prompted a state of emergency, with authorities scrambling to provide assistance and initiate rescue efforts.
A heart-wrenching incident unfolded in the village of Weiziping, situated to the south of Xi’an, where a formidable landslide demolished two houses and inflicted extensive damage on vital infrastructure. In a somber online statement, the Xi’an emergency management bureau confirmed the grim news: “Twenty-one people have tragically lost their lives, while six others remain unaccounted for.”
Initial reports from Chinese media earlier on Sunday indicated a death toll of four, and this was subsequently updated as the true scale of the disaster became evident. Previous information had indicated that two individuals had lost their lives, with 16 others reported as missing.
Responding to the catastrophe, rescue operations have been swiftly mobilized. Around a hundred soldiers and firefighters have joined forces to navigate the treacherous conditions and undertake vital rescue missions, which are currently ongoing as communities grapple with the aftermath of the devastation.
China has found itself grappling with an escalating crisis as relentless storms and unprecedented rainfall have wreaked havoc in recent weeks. Alarmingly, the death toll resulting from the storms in the northern regions has surged to a staggering 78, according to the latest count provided on Friday.
A video released by the Xinhua news agency underscores the severity of the situation, depicting the aftermath of the disaster with debris-strewn roads and fallen trees in a village nestled amid a mountainous landscape. Homes lie in ruins, and critical infrastructure has suffered significant damage.
Simultaneously, Typhoon Khanun, as it made landfall in China’s Liaoning province on Friday night, weakened into a tropical depression. Although its force has diminished, residual rainfall continues to pose a significant flood risk, particularly in the rugged terrain of the northeastern province. Low-lying cities, including Anshan in Liaoning province, have been particularly vulnerable, prompting the evacuation of 17,859 individuals from high-risk areas.
In the face of these daunting challenges, China remains steadfast in its efforts to manage the crisis. The State Flood Control and Drought Relief Headquarters, in conjunction with the Ministry of Emergency Management, convened a special meeting on Sunday morning. This focused on devising strategic flood prevention measures and coordinating swift emergency responses, particularly in provinces that have borne the brunt of the ongoing weather turmoil. Provinces such as Liaoning, Shaanxi, Tianjin, and Chongqing are among those that have been severely impacted and are receiving targeted support.
